In which a painter is persuaded to don women’s apparel to a masquerade by his mischievous companion, resulting in a series of comic misunderstandings and awkward encounters. Their revelry is abruptly ended by an arrest, leading to their conveyance to a sombre prison in Paris, where faithful attendants resolve to watch over them.

In which a learned physician endeavours to revive the ancient Roman banquet with peculiar dishes and curious ceremonies, inviting an assembly of affected foreign nobility whose sensibilities are repeatedly affronted by the strange flavours and awkward customs of the feast. Amidst discomfiture and comic mishaps, the company’s initial distaste is gradually assuaged by earnest apologies and the consolations of generous wine.

In which Peregrine Pickle’s acquaintance introduces his friends to the contrasting intellects of a staunch monarchist governor and a fervent democratic physician, sparking a vehement debate over government and society amidst their convivial Parisian tour. The discourse, rife with sharp wit and philosophical fervour, culminates in the doctor’s impassioned orations and a display of literary vanity that both amuses and unsettles his companions.

In which the volatile passions of youth embroil our hero in a complicated affair involving a lady restrained by her jealous husband, leading to a daring elopement hastily arranged beyond the city's reach. The intervention of the British ambassador ultimately restores the lady to her rightful spouse, though her confinement and the promise of a convent await as awkward remedies for the unruly entanglement.

In which Peregrine Pickle, prompted by letters from his family and a desire to outshine his English peers, resolves to return to his native country after a year and a half in France, and awaits a companion for his journey through Flanders and Holland. During a second visit to the Palais Royal, he encounters two English gentlemen—a presumptuous physician and a boastful painter—whose extravagant claims and misguided critiques of art provide both amusement and the promise of diverting company on his travels.

In which our young Englishman forms a discerning opinion of the arbitrary and tyrannical nature of the French government through a series of encounters that reveal the harshness faced by both nobles and commoners alike. Provoked by the insolence of a mousquetaire and the infidelity of a lady, he boldly confronts his adversary in a dramatic duel, asserting his honour despite the threats of law and authority.

In which our young hero, newly arrived in Paris, becomes embroiled in a raucous fray at a traiteur’s establishment, leading to an arrest by the city guard and subsequent release owing to youthful impetuosity and foreign leniency. He then navigates the intricate pleasures and perplexities of Parisian society, forming a noble acquaintance and encountering the disappointments of French gallantry and finance, before turning to more modest pursuits and reflections on national virtues.

In which Peregrine Pickle and his tutor journey through the French countryside, observing the stark contrasts between industry and poverty, before taking lodging at a village inn where unexpected company arrives. Amidst a supper shared with Mr. Hornbeck and his lady, Peregrine’s ardour kindles as he navigates both the lady’s favour and her husband’s suspicion with a mix of boldness and cunning.

In which Peregrine and his acquaintance undertake a long journey through various towns, arriving at Chantilly where a cunning plan leads to the surreptitious sedation of their companions, allowing Peregrine clandestine access to his lady love. The ensuing confusion and nocturnal disturbances provoke suspicion and abrupt departure of their company, leaving our adventurer to pursue his desires amid the grandeur of Paris.

In which Peregrine Pickle embarks upon a tempestuous voyage to France, where his loyal servant Pipes emerges as an unexpected mariner of remarkable skill, restoring order in the midst of a fierce gale. Upon landing at Calais, Peregrine encounters the customary vexations of foreign porters and officious custom-house officers, leading to a spirited contest of English pride and French authority.